When parents divorce, the top priority will be negotiating a custody schedule. This will determine who the child lives with and how much time they will spend with the non-custodial parent.
In New Jersey, the most important factor in custody cases is the best interests of the children. The courts will only approve and implement custody schedules that meet the needs of the child.
Here are a few tips that could help you negotiate a custody schedule.
Aim for a peaceful approach
Divorce and child custody cases can be stressful. These cases are often filled with conflict. However, the reality is that conflict helps no one, especially not the children. If you and your co-parent can set aside any personal disputes, and focus on the best interests of the child, then your custody negotiations will go much more smoothly.
It’s very important not to let outside factors impact your custody negotiations. For example, if your co-parent has failed to pay child support or alimony. These are separate legal issues and they must be addressed as such. While negotiations are taking place, the court will likely set a temporary custody order. While this may be temporary, it is still legally binding and must be followed regardless of any ongoing disputes.
Set your priorities
It’s important that both parents are able to compromise as well as assert their rights. It is very unlikely that either parent will get absolutely everything they want. If there are areas that you feel strongly about, such as how the child will be schooled, then you can prioritize this. If there are areas that are less important, such as the precise days that your child visits the other parent or visits you, then leave some wiggle room.
Negotiating custody can be tricky. That’s why it’s so important to have legal guidance behind you.